As a physician, you've just been offered a job. Congratulations! All your years of medical school, residency and interning have paid off. How can you be sure you've chosen the right offer?

Here are six must ask questions before accepting a physician job offer.

1) Am I a good fit for the hospital or clinic?

Although all hospitals may seem alike, there are important differences in atmosphere that can significantly impact how you feel about going to work each day. How do you see yourself fitting into the organization? Will you be proud to be associated with the hospital or clinic? Evaluate whether or not the culture and work environment appear to be in line with your own values and work style. Think about the role you will play in the clinic, and how you will get along with your potential colleagues and supervisors.

2) How much time will the position demand?

Some jobs are notorious for overtaking physicians' lives. If work and life balance are important to you, can you see yourself being able to balance the demands of the position with your interests and commitments outside of work? While many new doctors assume they will have to work long hours until they're established, this is not always the case. If you take the time to research available opportunities, it is possible to find a position that will allow you to have a life outside of work.

3) How will this particular job advance my personal and career goals?

If you were to accept the job offer, where would you be in five to ten years? Before accepting the position, decide whether you consider it to be a short-term role or a long-term career move. Ask what the position offers you in regards to experience or connections that could advance your status within the medical community. Some jobs offer more professional growth opportunities than others. Make sure that you fully understand the available opportunities for advancement, mentoring, and training so that you can get an idea of whether the position will meet your career goals.

4) Is this the best offer I will receive?

If you are considering more than one job offer, it is critical to compare them side-by-side. If it's the first offer you've received, don’t be so quick to accept because you may obtain other offers that are a better fit. On the other hand, weigh your options and don't turn down reasonable offers in hopes of landing your “dream job.”

5) Is the job a good fit for me?

When weighing a job offer, the first factors to consider are the details of the job itself. Is the pay rate fair? Is the commute reasonable? Does the benefits package meet your needs? Despite these basic job components, most people leave their jobs because they do not find their work professionally satisfying. If you get restless easily, it’s important to ask yourself if the position will challenge you while maximizing your skills and talents. If the job will not meet these needs, don’t be afraid to turn it down.

6) Does my family support my decision?

While accepting a physician job offer may seem like a personal decision, this type of commitment should involve your spouse and children. Many factors and sacrifices that affect you as an employee will affect your significant other as well.

Whether you're fresh out of medical school, are nearing retirement, or somewhere in between, it's tempting to accept the first offer that comes along just be to done with the tedious job hunting process. But before jumping at any opportunity, it’s important to ask yourself the preceding questions and carefully evaluate how the job offer will meet your needs, career goals, and lifestyle.